Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

264 Chapter 32

Table 32.1The ABCD classification of attachment

Type

Characteristic child

behaviour (SSP)∗

Approximate

%in

non-clinical

sample

Likely caregiving

style

Caregiver’s

probable

attachment

type (AAI)∗∗

A=Avoidant Explores with little
reference to caregiver.
Minimally distressed
by separation. Avoids
or ignores caregiver on
reunion.

15% Actively rejecting

of attachment

behaviour or

insensitively

intrusive. Lack

of tenderness.

Suppressed

parental anger.

Dismissing

B=Secure Uses caregiver as a
secure base to explore
from. May be
distressed by
separation. On
reunion greets
caregiver positively,
may seek comfort,
then gets on with
play/exploration again.

60% Sensitive to child’s

signals.

Responsive to

child’s needs.

Prompt

response to

distress,

buffering

negative affect.

Autonomous

C=Resistant-
ambivalent

Minimal exploration.

Highly distressed by

separation. Hard to

settle on reunion, with

ambivalent mixture of

clinging and anger.

10% Minimal or

inconsistent

responsiveness.

Preoccupied

D=Disorganised-
disorientated

Lack of coherent pattern

in exploratory or

reunion behaviours.

Fear or confusion in

the caregiver’s

presence is suggested

by disorganised and

disorientated

behaviours, for

example, rocking,

covering face,

freezing, unexpected

alternation of

approach and

avoidance.

15% Parental behaviour

is frightening or

unpredictable.

Not responding

to infant’s cues.

Overrides

infant’s

communications

and goals.

Sends infant

double

messages, for

example, holds

out arms and

backs away.

Unresolved

Notes:
∗SSP=Strange Situation Procedure.
∗∗AAI=Adult Attachment Interview.